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Stopped by for opening on Sunday, had the first breakfast (eggs, bacon, toast, home fries, fruit garnish). The home fries were delicious, nothing was overly greasy as at some breakfast joints, was a nice start to the day. Couple beside me had a salmon eggs benedict, looked (and according to them, tasted) delicious. The other had the waffles, which were similarly praised. Interesting to me, they had their coffee at a self-serve station by the bar. Built into the breakfast price, no doubt, but I actually liked it that way. If you had a large group of friends at the back, it might be tough, maybe they'd do well to have platters that one person could use to get everyone's order (though sugar/cream/milk/etc are all at the station), and a server pick up and return.

Also did a flight of their brews, four, and was an interesting experience to match with breakfast. Their cider is very low alcoholic content, tastes like apple juice. Their [german lager?] was simple, refreshing. The wheat choice definitely had a strong citrus note. The IPA had a full, single hoppy note to it. Nothing yet that makes me want a growler, but nothing that makes me want to warn anyone from the menu. As a first batch, first recipe to be released from the joint, I'll reserve judgement.

Sunday it was packed, every seat full but somehow fortunately little waiting. Had a guy playing endless songs on his guitar, doubtful that'll be a regular brunch fixture. Owner came by, one of them, chatted him up about the Cora's experience, franchise influence, and hopes for Abe Erb. Hope to be back to try the dinner menu, as it looked amazing.

My wife and I stopped by on Friday the first week it was opened. Very crowded and hopping. They were out of their own brews and a few of the others on their menu. Interesting setup, with long tables, almost mess hall style. I like the focus on local craft brews and the four beer flights are a great deal and a great way to sample the product. We will be back.

I went on Monday, and came away quite impressed. Like schooner77 said, they were out of their beer. (will have more Dec 1, 8, 12). But I guess that just speaks to how popular they've been. But even missing out on those, they have a great craft beer selection.

Had the Abe Burger and it was fantastic.

My only criticism is the seating. If sitting at the big long "mess hall" type tables it would be expected to have others right beside you. Sitting at your own table though, we only had MAYBE 12" between the tables and felt very much like we had no space to ourselves.

Quote:My only criticism is the seating. If sitting at the big long "mess hall" type tables it would be expected to have others right beside you. Sitting at your own table though, we only had MAYBE 12" between the tables and felt very much like we had no space to ourselves.

It's customary in most German et al restaurants to seat more than one party at the same table, especially when busy. This especially true in beer halls with long "mess hall" type tables. No one goes to such establishments for "intimacy." If that's the atmosphere Abe is trying to create then caveat potator.

But your comment reminds me of the days of smoking and non-smoking sections in restaurants. We'd ask for non-smoking and get a table 12" from the first table in the smoking section

I was at Innocente yesterday and found out that they're doing a contract brew of Abe Erb's IPA. No doubt an effort by Abe Erb to keep up with demand. I'd guess they're still working out the reality of their own brewing requirements.

(Innocente built more capacity than they initially needed because they sensed the opportunity to rent out their spare capacity. So far I've seen a number of different brewing company's products coming out of there, including Descendants and Shacklands.)

(11-26-2014, 10:42 AM)ookpik Wrote: If that's the atmosphere Abe is trying to create then potator biber.

You're going to have to help us out on that one. Google tells me that I probably meant to search for "Potato Bieber".

Sorry, I was having a senior's moment trying to remember how to turn "caveat emptor" into something like let the imbiber beware. I've edited the post but it's probably still wrong because Latin was a long time ago and I didn't pay much attention in class.

Quote:My only criticism is the seating. If sitting at the big long "mess hall" type tables it would be expected to have others right beside you. Sitting at your own table though, we only had MAYBE 12" between the tables and felt very much like we had no space to ourselves.

It's customary in most German et al restaurants to seat more than one party at the same table, especially when busy. This especially true in beer halls with long "mess hall" type tables. No one goes to such establishments for "intimacy." If that's the atmosphere Abe is trying to create then caveat potator.

But your comment reminds me of the days of smoking and non-smoking sections in restaurants. We'd ask for non-smoking and get a table 12" from the first table in the smoking section

Ya I understand that you're not going to get a completely private dining experience, but it was VERY close.

I'd have had no issue if it were at one of the big long tables, but individual tables should be spaced out a bit more.

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